Popular Tub Installation Types

Drop In

Undermount

Alcove

Corner

Free standing

Walk In

Bathtub Therapy Types

Air Baths: While whirlpools circulate a combination of air and water to produce an intense, targeted massage, air baths create a softer, subtle, full-body experience. Heated air is distributed through a network of channels where it is then released within the tub. Sometimes described as a "champagne" like experience, air tubs are extraordinarily relaxing.

Soaking Baths: The foundation of hydrotherapy is as simple as being enveloped in warm water. A soaking bathtub is a non-jetted, non-air tub. With less components they tend to cost quite a bit less than air and whirlpool varieties, but provide a limited experience.

WhirlPool: At its most basic form, the three things needed to create a whirlpool tub are water, air, and jets. The experience of these, however, is far from basic. Used in modern medicine, professional sport therapy, luxury hotels, and now the common residence, whirlpool tubs are highly regarded around the world for their healing qualities.

Air/whirlpool Combo: By combining the technologies of air and whirlpool tubs, combination tubs give users the ability to select from over a dozen unique experiences. During each bath, you will have your choice between a massaging whirlpool experience and the calming effervescence of air - or run both at the same time.

Popular Bathtub Brands

If you are looking for a bathtub that offers unsurpassed design and comfort, look no further than Jacuzzi®. The Jacuzzi name is synonymous with luxury and quality, so much so that people often use the term "Jacuzzi" to refer to any whirlpool bathtub or spa. Make a statement with a bathtub that not only offers the ultimate bathing experience, but is also a beautifully designed work of art.

It's not every day a plumbing manufacturer can make a difference in the way you live your life. But, then again, Kohler isn't an ordinary plumbing company. For well over a century, Kohler has been making durable, good-looking, and reliable bathroom and kitchen faucets and fixtures. Because of that, Kohler has become the undisputed leader in the plumbing industry.

When it comes to brand name and legacy, few plumbing manufacturers match those of American Standard. American Standard kitchen and bathroom faucets and fixtures can provide an upgrade for these popular spaces in the home, while elevating the décor level tremendously.

Rectangular

Oval

Corner

Specialty

Material

Acrylic: These tubs use fiberglass sheets that reinforce the formed sheets of colored acrylic that are over the top. They come in a large selection of colors, shapes, and sizes and are very light and easy to install. Acrylic tends to fade and scratch less over the course of time compared to their fiberglass counterparts, but it still tends to stretch over time much like a fiberglass tub.

Enameled Steel: Also Called Porcelain on steel, these tubs are made by coating a sheet of steel with a layer of porcelain enamel that make the tub durable and easy to clean. The layer of porcelain enamel is resistant to stains and most common household chemicals, and it tends to retain its gloss for a long time. Enameled steel tubs are heavier and the steel can rust if the coating chips.

Cast Iron: These are made by pouring molten iron into a form and then coated with a thick layer of enamel. Resistant to Scratching, denting, chipping, as well as most household cleaners, its beauty is sure to last a lifetime. Cast iron tubs come in a variety of shapes and colors - they seem to have a richness that other materials do not provide. Cast iron also provides excellent water heat retention. On the down side they are extremely heavy, and may cause you to add extra support to your floors. These are also among the most expensive tubs.

Tub Drain Placement

If you are ordering an Alcove tub, you do not need to worry about drain or pump placement, just be sure to order the correct drain placement (right or left) using the tub skirt as the tub's front.

Drop-In tubs, however, do not have a tub skirt, making clarification of the tub front necessary. People commonly think that because Drop-Ins do not have a skirt, that they are reversible, however this is only true for Soaking and Air tubs where an access panel is not necessary.

But for Whirlpool tubs, you will need to match the pump location to your access panel. This is achieved by designating the tub drain as the tub front.

Pump Placement

If you are ordering an Alcove tub, you do not need to worry about drain or pump placement, just be sure to order the correct drain placement (right or left) using the tub skirt as the tub's front.

Drop-In tubs, however, do not have a tub skirt, making clarification of the tub front necessary. People commonly think that because Drop-Ins do not have a skirt, that they are reversible, however this is only true for Soaking and Air tubs where an access panel is not necessary.

But for Whirlpool tubs, you will need to match the pump location to your access panel. This is achieved by designating the tub drain as the tub front.